A forested nature reserve with Taoist temples, trails and a winter ski area.
Xinglong Mountain is a forested nature reserve in Yuzhong County, about 60-70 km southeast of Lanzhou in Gansu Province, and it is the city's most convenient mountain escape. The scenic area rises above the surrounding loess landscape and is covered by pine and mixed forest, with Taoist temples scattered along the slopes, wooden stairways, viewing platforms and a network of trails. In winter part of the mountain operates as a ski area, which makes it a two-season destination.
Getting there is straightforward. Intercity buses run frequently from Lanzhou East Bus Station to Yuzhong (about ¥15-25, roughly 1.5-2 hours including town stops), and from Yuzhong a local taxi covers the remaining distance to the scenic area for about ¥30-50. A DiDi or taxi for the whole route costs roughly ¥150-220 each way and saves time, particularly for small groups. Because public transport thins out in the late afternoon, visitors should confirm the return options before heading up the mountain.
A good one-day arc is to leave Lanzhou by 08:00, reach the entrance in the late morning, and spend three to four hours hiking through the forest and visiting the mountain temples, then return by 17:00. The upper sections involve sustained climbing and many steps, and the temperature is typically 5-10 C cooler than in the city, so layers are important even in summer. The best months for walking are June to September, when the forest is green and the air is clear; the ski season runs from December to February.
Food is basic: visitors can find noodle shops and simple restaurants in Yuzhong and small stalls near the scenic area gate, selling Lanzhou beef noodles, flatbread and tea. Carrying water and snacks for the hike is wise. Typical costs run about ¥100-250 per person including transport, entry and food. The trip suits travellers wanting fresh air, temples and quiet trails without the long transfers needed for other Gansu day trips.
| Distance | About 60-70 km southeast |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1.5-2 hours |
| Getting there | Intercity bus from Lanzhou East Bus Station to Yuzhong (about ¥15-25), then local taxi to the scenic area (about ¥30-50) |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Xinglong Mountain Scenic Area, Yuzhong County, Lanzhou |
How to get there
- Mode
- Bus then taxi
- Cost
- ¥15-25 bus + ¥30-50 taxi
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Mode
- DiDi / taxi
- Cost
- ¥150-220 each way
- Frequency
- On demand
Location
Xinglong Mountain Scenic Area, Yuzhong County, Lanzhou
35.8500, 104.0700 View on map
Highlights
- Mountain temples
- Forest trails
- Skiing in winter
Tips for visiting
- Take the bus from Lanzhou East Bus Station to Yuzhong, then a taxi (about ¥30-50) to the scenic area.
- Leave Lanzhou by 08:00 to allow three to four hours on the trails and a 17:00 return.
- Dress in layers; temperatures at altitude are 5-10 C cooler than in the city.
- Arrange a taxi return in advance, as transport thins out in the late afternoon.
- Wear grippy footwear for steep, stepped sections, especially after rain.
- Winter visitors should check ski area opening dates before travelling.
When to visit
June to September for hiking, arriving in the morning to avoid afternoon storms; December to February for skiing.
Accessibility
Many routes involve steep paths and stairs, so the mountain is challenging for wheelchair users. Visitors with limited mobility can enjoy the lower temple areas and viewpoints near the entrance.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Xinglong Mountain from Lanzhou?
It is about 60-70 km southeast of Lanzhou in Yuzhong County, roughly 1.5-2 hours by bus plus a short taxi ride. A direct taxi or DiDi is faster.
When is the best time to visit?
June to September is best for hiking, with green forest and mild weather. The mountain also operates a ski area from about December to February.
How much does the trip cost?
Expect about ¥100-250 per person including bus, taxi, entry and food. A private car each way (about ¥150-220) raises the cost for solo travellers.
Is it a difficult hike?
Trails are mostly forest paths and stairs, with a moderate climb over three to four hours. Most reasonably fit visitors manage it with regular breaks.